Frequently Asked Questions

Leasing

When are student houses available for next year?

While the Properties page of our website is the most updated platform for available rentals, our office maintains an advanced notice list for those who have inquired, specifically for student properties. We try to provide timely notifications about status when we become aware of available homes, but the best method is to monitor the Properties page and our social media feeds for updates.

What is required for application to be processed? 

In order to process an application, the entire group of applicants must have completed application forms and submitted documentation required. 

Is my application fee refundable? 

The application fee is non-refundable and is applied toward the credit and background check fees we pay for each applicant. We are willing to transfer your application to another property under our management if done within 30 days.

Why do I need a guarantor? 

Not every applicant needs a guarantor but if you do not qualify based on the criteria a guarantor/ co-signer may be a good option. Each guarantor must submit a form or have their information submitted with the original application.

What are the requirements to rent? 

Applicants must provide information on your monthly income, which combined gross income is at least three (3) times the monthly rent amount. Each resident over the age of 18 must submit a separate rental application. Credit score of 650 or higher and clean background check as well as other criteria outlined in the application itself.

Do you accept vouchers or Section 8? 

We do work with programs and vouchers depending on the individual property and its owner permission. Contact our office with specific questions and more information.

Is renter insurance required? 

We require general liability limit of $300,000.00 for each tenant in addition to renter’s personal property insurance which protects your belongings while living in the home. Affordable options are available as add-ons to a homeowner policy, any insurance provider, and Appfolio our property management software program has auto-enroll options as well. 

Why am I guaranteeing the entire lease instead of just my child/ co-signee? 

We utilize the National Apartment Association Lease, and it is written to be jointly and severally liable meaning each tenant is responsible for the full rent and lease obligation. We find this helps tenants be more accountable to and for each other while allowing them to divide payments or responsibility as they choose since they are all equally liable. Each tenant has a guarantor who is taking on the same amount of responsibility and obligation of the full lease. 

For this reason, we always encourage our tenants to choose their roommates wisely and communicate effectively with each other and their guarantors, well in advance of move in, so expectations are clear and that all involved remain on the same page. Discussions and vetting among the group now makes way for easier cooperation and confidence that all will do their part during the lease term.

Are your properties pet friendly?

Some property owners allow pets while others do not. Pets must be registered with our office prior to their occupancy and there is typically a pet fee and monthly pet rent applied for each pet.

Can I get a copy of my lease?

All tenants receive a copy of their lease to electronically sign and a copy of the lease is emailed to all tenants and guarantors to review before signing. Once executed, a copy of the lease is uploaded to each tenant’s online portal and able to be viewed at anytime.

Move in/out

Can I move in or move out before my lease end date or start date? 

We set our schedules and moving dates to meet the needs of tenants, vendors, and our staff so they are difficult to change once the lease is signed. If you have questions or concerns, please contact our office to discuss.

When is rent due? 

Rent is due on the 1st of every month and is considered late after the 5th of the month. A late fee of 5% of the monthly gross rent will be assessed for any late rent. The Appfolio system automatically applies funds received to unpaid fees and charges before applying toward rent.

How do I pay rent?

Rent can be paid in any number of ways but the simplest is via your online tenant portal. You can mail a check or money order to Walk to State, LLC PO BOX 50205 Raleigh, NC 27650 or deliver it in person to our office or dropbox located at 5301 Hillsborough St. Raleigh, NC 27650.

If you set up auto-pay, please remember to monitor your online portal for any changes and discontinue it at move out. Walk to State cannot control autopayments.

Are utilities included with my rent? 

Tenants are responsible for activating and maintaining utilities at their property during tenancy. This allows a direct connection between tenants and the utility provider ensuring faster response and responsible usage. Details and contact information are outlined in the Tenant Move In Packet.

Contact your utility provider directly for any interruption in service or with billing questions.

Where is the best place to park my car?

The best options for parking are to use the spaces provided at your home or purchase a City of Raleigh Parklink parking pass. Requirements and application can be found on on their website (Parklink website).

What is expected at move out so I make sure to get my full deposit back? 

We expect our tenants to care for their property as if it were their own and return it in the same condition they received it. Our office will provide a Tenant Move Out Packet prior to your lease end date with more detail and expectations.Keys and any other items specified by our office must be delivered in person to our office by 5pm of your lease end date. DO NOT MAIL keys.

When should I expect my security deposit to be refunded? 

Security deposits are processed and mailed to the forwarding address provided by tenants within 30 days of lease end date. We will contact tenant groups if there is any delay or need to extend past this timeframe.

Where can I find information about my property or rent or status of maintenance request? 

The best way to stay updated is through your online Appfolio tenant portal. This has all documentation, a tenant ledger showing all payments and charges for your property, as well as a place to track maintenance requests in real time. You may also reach out to our office via text, email, or phone if you have specific questions or concerns.

maintenance

How do I report a maintenance issue? 

The best way to submit and track progress of a maintenance request is online through your AppFolio Tenant Portal.  

You may also contact our office, via email info@walktostate.com or call 919-825-1776, but always follow up with an online maintenance request so that it is logged in the system and you can track progress.In the event of an emergency, call 911 and then contact our office with an update.

How long does it take for my maintenance request to be received?

We do our best to be as responsive as possible.  You should hear from us within 24-48hrs. letting you know we have received your request and what the plan of action is.  The best way to stay up to date with progress is to track it online through your AppFolio Tenant Portal.

Do I need to be home during the maintenance visit?

No, our staff is able to assess and make repairs without tenants being home. We will contact you with an estimated arrival time and can update you when work is complete. Our technicians always secure the property so be sure you have your key or specify your preference for access.

How do I know what is a tenant responsibility versus an owner responsibility? 

Typically the owner is responsible for the structure and operating systems of the home (HVAC, plumbing, roof, etc.).  The tenant is responsible for the items listed on the maintenance form signed before moving in (light bulbs, air filters, smoke and CO detector batteries, competent use of provided appliances and systems, repair of damage to property, etc.).

As responsible property managers we are always available to repair what is needed, either with our staff or a preferred contractor, and do our best to communicate in advance so there is clear understanding of process and responsibility.

We evaluate each repair needed to insure the charge is applied appropriately.Tenant charges are applied to your tenant portal and are due upon receipt. The Appfolio system automatically applies funds received to unpaid fees and charges before applying toward rent.

How can I help reduce maintenance at my property?

There are a lot of ways tenants can help reduce the maintenance required at their unit. Here are a few simple pro-active steps that may help you/ your home:

• Keep your home tidy Seal and store all food in containers or cabinets
• Do not leave food or dirty dishes out
• Do not flush hygiene products down the commode
• Learn how to use a plungerRemove hair from the sink and shower drains after every use
• Remove all trash regularly and insure trash cans are taken to curb weekly for pick up
• Replace air filters for HVAC systems at least every 2 months
• Use energy conservation recommendations from your utility provider

Tenant Charges

What qualifies as a Tenant Charge?

Tenant charges are any charge, fee, or expense incurred as a result of a tenant action or that falls under tenant responsibilities.  These include but are not limited to: late fees, NSF fees, maintenance calls resulting from tenant or guest damages, etc.

Why am I being charged?

As the tenant you take responsibility for your actions as well as the actions of your guests, therefore we will contact you directly to remedy issues needing attention.  Tenant charges are assessed to specific tenants or sometimes to the tenant group depending on the situation.  

How can I pay my Tenant Charges?

Tenant charges can be paid online via your AppFolio Tenant Portal or in person at our office with check or money order.  Charges not paid by time of move-out may be applied to your security deposit.

When is payment for Tenant Charges due?

Payment for Tenant Charges are due at time of assessment/ service. Charges not paid by time of move-out may be applied to your security deposit.

Maintenance

How can I request maintenance be done at my unit?

The best way to submit and track progress of a maintenance request is to submit it online through your AppFolio Tenant Portal.  The second best way is to contact our office, via email info@walktostate.com or call 919-825-1776, but always follow up contact with an online maintenance request so that it is logged in the system and it’s progress is able to be tracked.

How long does it take for my maintenance request to be received?

We do our best to be as responsive as possible.  You should hear from us within 24-48hrs. letting you know we have received your request and what the plan of action is.  The best way to stay up to date with progress is to track it online through your AppFolio Tenant Portal.

What can I do to help reduce maintenance required at my unit?

There are a lot of ways tenants can help reduce the maintenance required at their unit. Here are a few simple pro-active steps that may help you/ your home:
• Keep your home tidy Seal and store all food in containers or cabinets 
• Do not leave food or dirty dishes out 
• Do not flush hygiene products down the commode 
• Learn how to use a plungerRemove hair from the sink and shower drains after every use
• Remove all trash regularly and insure trash cans are taken to curb weekly for pick up
• Replace air filters for HVAC systems at least every 2 months
• Use energy conservation recommendations from your utility provider

What repairs are the owner’s responsibility and what are a tenant’s responsibility?

Typically the owner is responsible for the structure and operating systems of the home (HVAC, plumbing, roof, door locks, appliances, etc.).  The tenant is responsible for the items listed on the maintenance form signed before move in (light bulbs, air filters, smoke and CO detector batteries, competent use of provided appliances and systems, repair of damage or destruction of property, etc.). 

As managers we will repair what is needed, either with our staff or a tenant/owner preferred contractor, however we will evaluate on a case by case basis the repair needed and who is responsible to insure the charge is applied appropriately.